Villarreal Playmaker Alex Baena does not seem to be long for La Ceramica. After gathering a remarkable 18 assists last year and playing a role in both Spain's triumphs on Euro 2024 and the Olympic Games in Paris, it was a surprise that the yellow submarine was able to hang on him, but the European giants circling around again.
Baena has already rejected the chance of leaving Castellon, after Saudi Aarabia was willing to pay his release clause of € 60 million, but there was a household name between club and player that would be the first to manage his exit this summer for a fee close to his release clause.
Atletico Madrid is the side that is most heavily connected to Baena, and he has been cited as one of their priority goals for this summer. This week it was reported that Villarreal and Atletico had already closed a deal for Baena, because Los Colchoneros wants to strengthen the Clubworld cup for the World Cup.
However, that report was refused by relevant. The first explains that no offer was made by Atletico, despite the fact that Baena would be interested in a move. His priority is to continue in La Liga, albeit only in one of Atletico, Barcelona or Real Madrid. He would also listen to an offer of the so -called 'Big Six' in the Premier League.
Then they add that after talking that Atletico may be trying to lower the costs of a deal by including players that Samuel Lino is happy. Villarreal, however, will give priority to money.
Barcelona is credited with an interest in the past, and Baena has admitted that he would be enthusiastic in a movement, but because of their team needs it seems unlikely that this summer is happening. Manchester United reportedly asked Baena, while Aston Villa was very interested last summer, but given the information above, it seems that Baena is not so seduced by a switch to the midlands.